Find a hotel in York with Opodo to get a real sense of what life was like in medieval England. Much of the city's 13th-century wall remains and inside is a cluster of narrow streets lined with many ancient buildings. Towering over everything is York Minster, claimed to be one of the world's most beautiful Gothic cathedrals. It's possible to find cheap hotels in York that give you a glimpse of the Minster from your bedroom window. As well as the Minster, York has excellent museums, themed attractions and plenty of places to dine, drink and enjoy an evening's fun. And, if you like to shop there are the contrasting delights of the Shambles and the Coppergate Centre. Once the place where butchers worked, The Shambles is a street of overhanging timber buildings and quirky independent shops. In contrast, the Coppergate Centre is a modern venue. One hint before visiting York: here, 'gate' means 'street' and 'bar' means 'gate'. Confusing!
Get a sense of the city's original size by taking a walk around the city walls. At some places such as Bootham Bar, you can still access elevated sections and enjoy a different city perspective. One advantage of choosing to book a hotel in the city centre is that you can visit York Minster early in the day before day-trippers arrive. After admiring the stunning architecture and magnificent interior, climb the Central Tower for more panoramic city views. Little remains of York Castle which sits at the edge of the town. Discover its history in Clifford's Tower while enjoying different views of the distant North York Moors. History continues at the Yorkshire Museum and Gardens with interactive exhibits for all ages. The museum has a beautiful setting on the banks of the River Ouse. A highlight of any visit to York is the JORVIK Viking Centre. This immersive experience takes you back to 975 AD when the Vikings controlled the city. You can even see the remains of a 1,000-year-old house. Pop into the York Chocolate Story for a real sightseeing treat. Favourite names such as Smarties and Kit Kat started their life here. Take a guided factory tour and have a go at chocolate making yourself.
Slightly to the west of the town and near York Station is the National Railway Museum where train enthusiasts can explore 300 historic trains and browse the railway artefacts. Fossgate, near The Shambles, is a good area for finding cheap hotels in York. As well as being home to the JORVIK Viking Centre, Fossgate's hilly streets are packed with independent shops and excellent places to eat and drink. South of York Minster is Goodramgate, an area that combines bustle with a village feel. Here is Bedern Hall, a 14th-century dining hall that once had links with the Minster. For more tranquil stays away from the busy city centre, look for hotel deals near the racecourse. Getting into the town centre is still easy and you have attractions such as Goddard's House and Garden on the doorstep. When you book a hotel in York you also have a gateway to the beautiful surrounding countryside of dales and moors. Visit the village of Haworth with its Brontë links or sample Yorkshire rural life at Ilkley and Otley. If you're ready to sample this historic city, use the Opodo search filters to find a hotel in York that suits your budget and interests.